Why it's brilliant: Traveling is more fun when you have a free bed and someone to show you around. CEO Jen O'Neal once hosted a wealthy investor from Dallas -- "Totally not the kind of guy you'd expect to sleep on a couch... but he wanted to meet local people."

To make sure everyone stays safe, Tripping uses a thorough system of references and ratings.

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Editors' Picks

@TaylorNC - Our hosts often show Trippers around, but it's entirely optional. For example, I've been hosting 3 German travelers this week. They've been exploring San Francisco during the day and we get together at night to cook dinner and hang out.

@alejom81 and @jarrett - We have a ton of respect for hospitality sites, since we all share the goal of making the world a better place through cultural exchange. Since you asked: one of our core differences is that we're partnered with universities, study abroad programs and international volunteer organizations. For example, AmeriCorps Alums can use Tripping to connect directly with each other for coffee, homestays and volunteer projects around the world.

@Melissa - Yep, you're totally right. Safety is important to us and we built Tripping with solo female backpackers in mind, since they're the most vulnerable travel demographic. Thanks for noticing :)